Hamamatsu Flying Dragon Festival 2025

Event date:
May 31, 2025 at 1:24 am
Event end:
May 31, 2025 at 1:24 am

Event: The 35th Enshu Hamakita Flying Dragon Festival
Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Venue: Tenryugawa Nakase Green Space, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Admission Fee: ¥500 (Free for preschool children)
Note: Cash only. Electronic payments not accepted.
Admission includes a discount coupon for use at the Mizu no Michi Product Shop.

Shuttle Bus Service

Free shuttle bus service from Entetsu Railway Hamakita Station and Nishikashima Station.
Shuttle buses run regularly to ensure easy access to the festival.

Parking

Free parking available for 500 cars.
Note: The parking lot has limited spaces, and if full, you may be directed to a nearby temporary parking lot. Arrive early to ensure a spot.

Rain Policy

The event will proceed in light rain.
In case of heavy weather, the event will be canceled.
An official announcement will be made by 7:00 AM on the day of the event.

What Happens at the Festival?

The Enshu Hamakita Flying Dragon Festival is one of Hamamatsu City’s most exciting and unique annual events. Held next to the scenic Tenryu River, the festival features a variety of thrilling activities that will keep visitors engaged throughout the day and into the night.

Key Highlights:

Flying Dragon Fireworks: The grand finale of the festival features a 60-meter flying dragon that soars through the sky, exhaling a spectacular display of fireworks. This dramatic visual is a highlight and a must-see for attendees.
Fire Dancing & Drums: Expect to be captivated by traditional fire dancing and drum performances that add to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. The fire dancers perform spectacular, fiery routines, while the drum beats keep the energy high.
Kite-Flying Competitions: The festival kicks off with kite-flying competitions that showcase a traditional Japanese art form, attracting both amateur and professional kite-flyers. It’s a beautiful sight to see the colorful kites filling the sky.
Torch Procession: One of the highlights of the evening is the torch procession, where participants march with flaming torches, creating a breathtaking spectacle that leads up to the fireworks.

Event Schedule:

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: The opening festival kicks off with various fun activities, including kite-flying competitions and live entertainment. Expect booths offering food, drinks, and local products.
6:30 PM – 9:00 PM: The fire festival starts, featuring drum performances, fire dancing, a torch procession, and culminating with the flying dragon fireworks at 8:30 PM.

Other Activities:

Food Stalls: Various food stalls offer local delicacies, festival treats, and traditional Japanese food like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
Mizu no Michi Product Shop: The festival includes a special product shop where visitors can purchase local products and festival memorabilia, with a discount coupon provided with admission.

Tips for Attendees:

Arrive Early: If you’re driving, arrive early to secure a parking spot as spaces fill up quickly. Alternatively, take advantage of the free shuttle buses from the nearby stations.
Prepare for the Weather: The event will proceed rain or shine, but it can get chilly in the evening, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
Cash Only: Make sure to bring cash, as electronic payments are not accepted at the venue.

Pro Tip:

If you’re planning to stay for the entire day, consider packing a picnic and enjoying the beautiful Tenryu River surroundings before the evening festivities. The riverbank offers a scenic place to relax and enjoy the day before the fire festival kicks off.

Nearby Attractions:

Hamanako Lake: A short drive away from the festival, Hamanako Lake offers opportunities for sightseeing, boat rides, and enjoying the beautiful natural landscape.
Kakegawa Castle: Another nearby landmark, Kakegawa Castle, is a historical site that offers insight into the region’s rich history.

Festival Experience:

The Enshu Hamakita Flying Dragon Festival is a unique celebration that blends local culture, exciting performances, and breathtaking visuals, all set against the backdrop of the Tenryu River. It’s a festival you won’t want to miss!